Finding The Cutting Edge In Video Game Design

The video game industry is blowing up, year after year, with triple A titles becoming hot property for gamers all over the world and of special interest to kids around this time of year. With such a demand for innovative games, produced at a breakneck speed, the market is becoming saturated with designers.

 If you’re an avid gamer looking to get into the industry, or perhaps a programmer or creative person looking to find their niche, it can seem daunting. Perhaps you’re even someone looking towards New Years resolutions to help you get over a hurdle and into the industry of your choice. These tips should help you out.

Education

Computer games used to be made by enthusiasts and hobbyists. Whilst they had college degrees, they weren’t necessarily related to computer game design or programming. However, qualifications can now put you on the fast track to being a videogame designer. There are numerous institutions offering video game design qualifications with a healthy geographical spread. Whilst not necessary, qualifications are beneficial to aspiring designers.

Market Awareness

There was a time when the best selling games were either inhouse products made as part of a continuous line – such as Westwood’s chain of Command and Conquer and Dune games. If not, they were made on proprietary engines, such as the Unreal series, which were a closely guarded company secret and subject to licensing. Nowadays, engines like Unity are changing the market. Unity is branching into film but found fame in games, and offers (up to a certain income) a free engine to would-be developers. If you stay aware of new products and market trends, you will benefit and find your edge. 

Creativity

Probably key in any creative industry is – that’s right, creativity. If you are the creative type who can spot a niche, a new coding platform, or perhaps a genre or game idea that hasn’t been built upon, drive towards it and try out your idea. The best new ideas and game modes have always come from those with a creative mind liking to try something new out, and now there are games designed to invite creativity.

Video game design is becoming a saturated market in terms of the competition for positions, breathing space and profit. However, there are a few way you can get ahead that require little more than dedication and hard work.